Jake Knapp’s performance in the Cognizant Classic took a turn for the worse in his second round, with an 11-shot difference from his opening round. Despite this, he maintained a one-shot lead over Matthieu Pavon.
Knapp made history by setting a course record at the Champion Course in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, with a round of 59. This achievement placed him among the elite 15 players in PGA Tour history to record a sub-60 round.
However, Knapp struggled in the second round, going 10 holes without a birdie and facing a double bogey when his tee shot landed in the water. Despite some challenges, Knapp managed to finish the round with a one-under 70, expressing his adjustment to following up a remarkable 59 in a tournament setting.
Pavon, who won at Torrey Pines last year, shot a 64 and briefly held the lead until narrowly missing a birdie on his final hole, finishing one shot behind Knapp.
Local player Daniel Berger initially shared the lead after going out in 31 but struggled to make birdies for the rest of the round. Despite a bogey, Berger remained in contention at 11-under, tied with Michael Kim, Doug Ghim, and Jesper Svensson, two shots behind the leader.
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Berger reflected on his performance, admitting to some struggles on the back nine. Former Ryder Cup captain Zach Johnson also performed well, posting a 66 to join Rickie Fowler and Taylor Montgomery in tied-seventh, three shots behind Knapp.
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One standout player was Florida State junior Luke Clanton, who easily made the cut with a five-under 66. This achievement earned him enough points to secure a PGA Tour card after the NCAA Championships. With prior success in PGA Tour events, Clanton embraces the challenge of competing on a big stage this weekend.
Watch the Cognizant Classic throughout the weekend live on Sky Sports Golf. Live coverage continues on Saturday from 3pm. Get Sky Sports or stream with no contract on NOW.
